Walmart Foundation donates $2 million to make food banks 'green'

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Walmart's philanthropic arm announced a $2 million donation to help food banks save money on energy bills.

This funding, the Walmart Foundation said, will help 16 food banks "go green" by becoming more energy efficient through lighting, refrigeration or heating and air-conditioning equipment upgrades.

This initiative is a part of Walmart's commitment to fighting hunger. In May, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation announced a $2 billion cash and in-kind commitment through the end of 2015, including:

Donating more than 1.1 billion lbs. of food from Walmart stores, distribution centers and Sam's Club locations, valued at $1.75 billion;

Giving $250 million in grants to support hunger relief organizations at the national, state and local levels; and

Collaborating with government, food manufacturers and other corporations that are fighting hunger to increase impact and reach a greater number of families in need.

"These grants underscore Walmart's commitment to lead on both hunger relief and sustainability," said Margaret McKenna, president of the Walmart Foundation. "Every dollar these food banks save on energy costs is another dollar they can use to help meet the hunger needs of their local communities."